RE: Kano Escalating Repression Endangers Freedom of Expression
The Kano State Peace Advocates (KASPA) wishes to further clarify issues arising from recent public commentary concerning the state of civil liberties in Kano State. Civil liberties in Nigeria’s Constitution are the fundamental freedoms guaranteed to every citizen that protect individuals from government interference and ensure equality under the law. They are set out in Chapter […]
The Kano State Peace Advocates (KASPA) wishes to further clarify issues arising from recent public commentary concerning the state of civil liberties in Kano State.
Civil liberties in Nigeria’s Constitution are the fundamental freedoms guaranteed to every citizen that protect individuals from government interference and ensure equality under the law. They are set out in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (Sections 33–46) and include rights such as the right to life, dignity, personal liberty, fair hearing, freedom of thought and religion, freedom of expression and the press, freedom of assembly and association, freedom of movement, and freedom from discrimination. In everyday terms, these liberties mean Nigerians are free to live without fear of unlawful arrest or oppression, to speak their minds, to worship as they choose, to gather peacefully, and to be treated fairly regardless of background. They serve as the foundation of democracy in Nigeria, empowering citizens to challenge injustice, hold leaders accountable, and live with dignity. Basically, civil liberties are the everyday freedoms that allow people to participate fully in society while being protected from abuse of power. It is in view of the above, that we reaffirm without reservation that His Excellency, Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf, Governor of Kano State, is a committed democrat who firmly believes in and upholds the constitutional right to freedom of expression as guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended as indicated above.
Since assuming office, Governor Yusuf has consistently demonstrated openness to criticism, encouraged constructive dissent, and maintained accessible channels of communication between government and citizens. His administration has not enacted any policy aimed at suppressing lawful speech or peaceful civic engagement. On the contrary, the Governor has repeatedly called for dialogue, tolerance, and responsible public discourse in order to move the state forward. It is, however, important to clearly distinguish between the political leadership of the state and the operational mandates of federal and state security agencies. Institutions such as the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other constitutionally recognized security bodies operate under established legal frameworks that empower them to act independently in the interest of public safety, security and national development.
Where these agencies determine that certain actions, statements, or conducts may constitute incitement, threats to public order, cyber-related offenses, or other violations of existing laws, they are legally authorized to invite, question, arrest, or detain individuals in accordance with due process (constitution). Such operational decisions do not require the directive, prior approval, or personal knowledge of the Governor, as clearly stated by the Nigeria’s 1999 constitution as amended.
In a democratic system, security institutions/agencies are empowered to enforce the law without political interference. This separation is essential to maintaining institutional integrity, preventing abuse of executive power, and preserving the rule of law.
The Kano State Peace Advocates therefore cautions against attributing any enforcement action taken by security agencies to the Governor or framing lawful security interventions as evidence of executive repression without verified facts.
We reiterate:
Ø Freedom of speech is protected and respected in Kano State. Abuse of any freedom particularly where it threatens public peace or violates existing laws may lawfully attract investigation or prosecution.
Ø Security agencies act within their statutory mandates and are accountable to their respective oversight mechanisms under the Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution as amended.
Ø Kano State remains committed to democratic principles, peaceful coexistence, and responsible civic participation.
Ø The State government under the leadership of His Excellency, AKY encourages all stakeholders to promote informed discourse, respect for the rule of law, and continued engagement through peaceful and lawful means.
Signed,
Comrade Adam Auwal,
Director Publicity,
For: Kano State Peace Advocates.